AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX vs Intel Core i9 9980HK: The Ultimate Showdown

Choosing the right CPU for your workstation can be a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with powerful processors like the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX and the Intel Core i9 9980HK. Both CPUs boast impressive specs, but they cater to different types of workloads and users. This in-depth comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each processor to make an informed decision for your specific needs.

A Glimpse into the Contenders: AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX vs Intel Core i9 9980HK

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX is a powerhouse designed for professionals who demand maximum performance in multi-threaded applications. It packs 96 cores and 192 threads, making it ideal for rendering, video editing, scientific simulations, and other demanding tasks.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 9980HK is a mobile processor designed for high-performance laptops. While it has fewer cores and threads (8 cores and 16 threads), it boasts a higher clock speed and better single-core performance, making it suitable for gaming, content creation, and general productivity.

Core Count and Thread Count: A Tale of Two Giants

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX takes the lead in this category with its massive 96 cores and 192 threads. This massive core count allows it to handle complex tasks with multiple threads simultaneously, offering significantly faster performance in multi-threaded applications. The Intel Core i9 9980HK, with its 8 cores and 16 threads, falls short in this department, but it still provides decent performance for most everyday tasks.

Clock Speed and Single-Core Performance: The Speed Demon

While the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX boasts a respectable base clock speed of 2.7 GHz, the Intel Core i9 9980HK takes the crown with a higher base clock speed of 2.9 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5 GHz. This translates to faster performance in single-threaded applications and games, where clock speed plays a significant role.

Cache Memory: The Performance Booster

Both CPUs offer ample cache memory to enhance performance. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX has a whopping 256MB of L3 cache, while the Intel Core i9 9980HK features 16MB of L3 cache. The larger cache on the Threadripper Pro allows it to store more frequently used data, reducing the need to access slower main memory and improving performance in memory-intensive tasks.

Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP): Efficiency Matters

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX has a significantly higher TDP (280W) compared to the Intel Core i9 9980HK (45W). This means the Threadripper Pro consumes more power and generates more heat, requiring a powerful cooling solution to maintain optimal performance. The Intel Core i9 9980HK, with its lower TDP, is more energy-efficient and generates less heat, making it a more suitable option for mobile devices.

Benchmarks: A Real-World Performance Comparison

While comparing specifications provides a good overview, real-world benchmarks offer a more accurate picture of performance. In multi-threaded benchmarks like Cinebench R23, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX consistently outperforms the Intel Core i9 9980HK, thanks to its massive core count. However, in single-threaded benchmarks like Geekbench 5, the Intel Core i9 9980HK takes the lead due to its higher clock speed.

Target Audience: Who are these CPUs for?

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX is designed for professionals who require maximum performance in multi-threaded applications. It’s ideal for tasks like:

• 3D rendering: Rendering complex 3D models and animations.
• Video editing: Editing high-resolution videos with multiple tracks and effects.
• Scientific simulations: Running computationally intensive simulations and analyses.
• Software development: Compiling large codebases and running complex simulations.

The Intel Core i9 9980HK, on the other hand, is a mobile processor that excels in:

• Gaming: Delivering smooth gameplay at high refresh rates.
• Content creation: Editing photos and videos with demanding software.
• General productivity: Handling everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

The choice between the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX and the Intel Core i9 9980HK ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require maximum performance in multi-threaded applications and your budget allows for a powerful workstation, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX is the clear winner.
However, if you’re looking for a mobile processor with excellent single-core performance and a lower price point, the Intel Core i9 9980HK is a compelling option.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Future

The CPU landscape is constantly evolving, with both AMD and Intel pushing the boundaries of performance. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more powerful processors with increased core counts, higher clock speeds, and improved energy efficiency.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1: Can I upgrade the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX or Intel Core i9 9980HK?
A: Both CPUs are soldered to the motherboard, meaning they cannot be upgraded.
Q2: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The Intel Core i9 9980HK offers better single-core performance, making it a better choice for gaming.
Q3: Which CPU is more energy-efficient?
A: The Intel Core i9 9980HK is more energy-efficient with its lower TDP.
Q4: What is the difference between the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX and the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX?
A: The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX is a workstation-grade processor with a higher core count and TDP, while the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX is a desktop-grade processor with a lower core count and TDP.
Q5: What are the best motherboards for the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX and the Intel Core i9 9980HK?
A: For the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7955WX, you’ll need a motherboard with the WRX8 socket. For the Intel Core i9 9980HK, you’ll need a motherboard with the Socket 1151v2.
By understanding the key features and target audience of each CPU, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.